FSX US Navy S-3B Viking 700

This repaint offers a detailed recreation of a US Navy S-3B Viking flown by VS-38, the “Red Griffins,” during operations aboard the USS Ranger in mid-1989. The squadron served a variety of missions before its eventual deactivation in April 2004, and its departure signaled the retirement of these specialized Vikings from the active Navy roster. This package, developed by Russel R. Smith based on the freeware model by Dino Cattaneo, replicates the subdued paint scheme typical of late Cold War naval aviation. As a repaint only, you will need to obtain Dino Cattaneo’s Lockheed S-3B Viking freeware package to use these files in Microsoft Flight Simulator X or Prepar3D v2.xx.

Visual Enhancements for the S-3B Viking

This update depicts the twin-engine Lockheed S-3B in the distinct markings of VS-38, capturing the low-visibility gray color tones that were frequently applied to naval aircraft dedicated to anti-submarine and sea-control responsibilities. From an external perspective, the paintwork includes correct squadron insignia placement, tail codes, and subtle details such as stenciling and service markings. In real-world operations, the S-3B Viking was adept at detecting submarines via sonobuoys, radar, and magnetic anomaly detection, and it also helped to perform in-flight refueling and electronic surveillance when carrier strike groups needed expanded mission capabilities.

Key Repaint Attributes

• Accurate VS-38 Markings: Surfaces and fins reflect the “Red Griffins” insignia associated with the USS Ranger deployment.
• Low-Visibility Scheme: Color tones match the subdued operational paint finish seen during late Cold War missions.
• Artist’s Rendition Details: Weathering and panel lines are interpreted to match historical references without deviating from recognized squadron standards.

Installation Process

• Unzip all files into your “Lockheed_S3_Viking” directory, ensuring that folder structure is maintained. This creates a “texture.VS-38_RedGriffins_Lo-Viz” folder automatically.
• Verify compatibility with your simulator, namely Microsoft Flight Simulator X or Prepar3D v2.xx.
• Add the following text to your aircraft.cfg, substituting “xx” with the next sequential number in your configuration file.

[fltsim.xx] title=Lockheed S-3B Viking VS-38 RedGriffins Lo-Viz sim=S-3B model= panel= sound= texture=VS-38_RedGriffins_Lo-Viz kb_checklists=s3b_info kb_reference=s3b_info atc_airline=NAVY atc_flight_number=700 ui_manufacturer=Lockheed ui_type=S-3B Viking ui_variation=VS-38 Red Griffins Lo-Viz description="The Lockheed S-3 Viking served with the U.S. Navy to detect and track adversary submarines, later transitioning to surface warfare and aerial refueling. Renowned for its multi-mission aptitude, the Viking was often called the Hoover for its uniquely low engine tone. This repaint commemorates VS-38, 'Red Griffins,' as they appeared on the USS Ranger in June 1989."

Historical Background

The Lockheed S-3B Viking excelled in extended maritime assignments due to its robust endurance and carrier-based adaptability. During service, it supported battle group defense with anti-submarine capabilities, advanced sensor suites, and airborne refueling operations. When the Vikings were phased out, roles once filled by these jets were taken over by other platforms, including the P-3 Orion and the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. However, a small number still supports range clearance tasks, further proving the platform’s continued utility in specialized operations.

Developer Credits and Notes

This texture package is the work of Russel R. Smith, leveraging the base model crafted by Dino Cattaneo. It honors the operational heritage of the “Red Griffins” and aims to add extra realism for simmers seeking authentic naval aviation experiences. Remember that these textures do not include the Lockheed S-3B Viking freeware model itself—please acquire the original freeware by Dino Cattaneo from the Fly Away Simulation library before installing.